Are you ready to unlock the secret to mastering skateboard bluntslides and boardslides? These two popular tricks may seem daunting at first, but with a little practice and some expert guidance, you’ll be gliding effortlessly across rails and ledges in no time. In this article, we’ll break down the key elements of these tricks, share some valuable tips, and help you build the confidence needed to nail them with style. So grab your board, put on your helmet, and get ready to take your skateboarding skills to the next level!
Understanding the Basics
Skateboarding is an exhilarating sport that requires skill, practice, and precision. Two fundamental maneuvers that every skateboarder should aim to master are bluntslides and boardslides. While similar in execution, bluntslides and boardslides have their own unique characteristics that set them apart.
Difference between Bluntslides and Boardslides
Bluntslides and boardslides involve sliding along a rail or ledge, but the main difference lies in the direction of approach. In a bluntslide, you approach the rail or ledge with your tail, sliding with the front trucks of your skateboard. On the other hand, boardslides involve approaching the rail or ledge with the center of your board, sliding along your trucks.
Importance of Proper Foot Placement
Proper foot placement is crucial to executing bluntslides and boardslides with confidence and control. For bluntslides, position your front foot diagonally across the skateboard, pointing towards the front trucks. Your back foot should be placed on the tail, ready to lift it slightly to initiate the slide. In boardslides, position your feet shoulder-width apart, with your front foot just behind the bolts and your back foot on the tail or just in front of it.
Finding the Right Surface
The surface you choose to practice bluntslides and boardslides on can greatly impact your learning experience. Look for rails or ledges that are smooth, waxed, and at a height that matches your skill level. It’s essential to find a surface with enough length to accommodate your entire slide, while also providing a suitable level of challenge. Practice on surfaces that have sufficient run-up space and a clear landing area to ensure your safety.
Mastering Bluntslides
Bluntslides are an impressive trick that can elevate your skateboarding skills. To master bluntslides, it’s essential to build a strong foundation in the following areas.
Getting Comfortable with Manuals
Before delving into bluntslides, it’s important to develop your manual skills. Manuals involve balancing on your back wheels while rolling. Practicing manuals will enhance your ability to control weight distribution, which is crucial for maintaining balance during bluntslides.
Perfecting Your Ollie
The ollie is the most fundamental trick in skateboarding and serves as the foundation for many other tricks, including bluntslides. Spend time honing your ollie technique, ensuring you can confidently pop your board into the air and clear obstacles. This will provide a solid launching platform for executing bluntslides.
Approaching the Rail
Approach the rail or ledge at a moderate speed, with your body centered over the board. As you near the rail, prepare to lift the tail of your skateboard and shift your weight over the front trucks. This will initiate the slide and allow the front trucks to make contact with the rail.
Balancing and Sliding
Maintaining balance during a bluntslide is crucial for a successful execution. Keep your body position centered and focus on shifting your weight to maintain control as you slide along the rail. You may need to make slight adjustments to correct your balance throughout the slide.
Landing and Rolling Away
As you approach the end of the rail, prepare to land smoothly. Extend your legs to absorb the impact, and aim to roll away with confidence. Practice consistently to ensure you can seamlessly transition from the slide to rolling away.
Mastering Boardslides
Boardslides are another exciting trick that every aspiring skateboarder should strive to master. Let’s dive into the steps involved in mastering boardslides.
Getting Familiar with Grinds
Grinds are similar to slides, but instead of sliding along the rail or ledge, you grind on it. To prepare for boardslides, spend time practicing grinds on curbs or low rails. This will help you build the necessary balance and control required for executing boardslides.
Learning the Frontside Boardslide
Start by approaching the rail or ledge with a comfortable speed. As you near the rail, pop an ollie while turning your body slightly towards the rail. This will initiate the frontside boardslide motion. As your trucks make contact with the rail, focus on maintaining balance and sliding along the rail’s edge.
Mastering the Backside Boardslide
Approach the rail or ledge in a similar manner as for the frontside boardslide. However, this time, pop an ollie while turning your body away from the rail. This will initiate the backside boardslide motion. Keep your body centered over the rail, and focus on maintaining balance as you slide along.
Approaching the Rail
Whether you’re attempting a frontside or backside boardslide, the approach is crucial. Aim to approach the rail or ledge with your body centered over the skateboard. Maintain a comfortable speed, which allows for precise control and enhances your ability to balance throughout the slide.
Executing the Boardslide
As you ollie onto the rail or ledge, focus on keeping your weight centered and your body aligned with the board’s direction. Maintain a relaxed and controlled stance as you slide along the rail. Focus on minimizing excessive movements and keeping your board’s trucks firmly in contact with the rail.
Landing and Rolling Away
As you reach the end of the rail, prepare to land with confidence. Bend your knees to absorb the impact, and aim for a smooth transition from the slide to rolling away. Maintain an assertive posture and continue rolling forward to maintain momentum.
Advanced Techniques and Tips
Once you have a firm grasp of the basics of bluntslides and boardslides, it’s time to explore advanced techniques and tips that can elevate your skills to new heights.
Adding Variations to Bluntslides and Boardslides
Once you feel comfortable with the standard bluntslide and boardslide, consider adding variations to add flair to your tricks. Experiment with different approaches, body positions, and exit strategies to create unique and stylish slides.
Improving Balance and Control
Balance and control are vital for executing any skateboarding trick. Focus on strengthening your core muscles through exercises and practice maintaining balance on your board. Gradually increase the difficulty of surfaces and obstacles to challenge yourself and improve your overall control.
Maintaining Speed and Momentum
Maintaining speed and momentum during slides and grinds is essential for executing tricks fluidly. As you approach the rail or ledge, aim to maintain an optimal speed that allows for both control and a smooth slide. Practice pumping your legs and using your body movements to generate and maintain speed throughout the trick.
Building Confidence through Practice
Confidence is key when it comes to mastering bluntslides and boardslides. Consistent practice is the best way to build confidence in your abilities and improve your skills. Set aside dedicated practice sessions and gradually increase the difficulty level to challenge yourself and push your limits.
Safety and Protective Gear
While skateboarding is an exhilarating sport, safety should always be a top priority. Protect yourself by investing in the appropriate safety gear and adopting safe practices.
Importance of Wearing a Helmet
A helmet is a non-negotiable safety item for any skateboarder. The head is particularly vulnerable to injury, and wearing a helmet can prevent serious accidents and protect your brain. Invest in a certified skateboard helmet that fits properly and wear it every time you skate.
Selecting the Appropriate Footwear
Choosing the right footwear is crucial for skateboarding. Look for shoes specifically designed for skateboarding, as they offer proper grip, durability, and support. Avoid wearing sandals, flip-flops, or any other unsuitable footwear that can compromise your safety and performance.
Wrist Guards, Knee Pads, and Elbow Pads
While not mandatory, wrist guards, knee pads, and elbow pads can provide additional protection and prevent serious injuries. Consider wearing these protective gears, especially when attempting new tricks or skating in unfamiliar terrain.
Stretching and Warm-up
Before every skate session, take the time to warm up your muscles and stretch properly. This will help prevent muscle strains and injuries. Focus on stretching your legs, hips, and arms, as these areas are most involved in skateboarding movements.
Troubleshooting Common Challenges
Like any skill, mastering bluntslides and boardslides can come with its fair share of challenges. Here are some common obstacles you might encounter and tips for overcoming them.
Overcoming Fear and Mental Barriers
Fear and mental barriers can hinder your progress in skateboarding. It’s important to recognize these emotions and address them head-on. Start with small steps, gradually increasing the difficulty as you gain confidence. Visualize yourself successfully executing the trick and focus on positive reinforcement.
Dealing with Uneven Surfaces
Skateboarding surfaces can vary in quality, and encountering uneven terrain is common. To overcome this challenge, focus on maintaining balance and adapting to the surface. Practice adjusting your weight distribution and foot movements to compensate for any irregularities in the surface.
Troubles with Sliding or Grinding
If you’re having trouble with sliding or grinding, it’s essential to assess your technique. Ensure your weight is properly distributed over the rail or ledge, and that your board is making solid contact. Experiment with different foot placements and body positions to find what works best for you.
Preventing Injuries
Injuries are an unfortunate reality in skateboarding, but there are steps you can take to minimize their occurrence. Focus on maintaining control and proper body alignment during tricks. Be aware of your limitations and progress at a pace that is comfortable for you. If you feel fatigued or experience pain, take a break and allow your body to recover.
Finding Inspiration and Motivation
Skateboarding is not only about mastering tricks, but also about finding inspiration and staying motivated. Here are some tips to keep your passion alive.
Watching Skateboarding Videos
Immerse yourself in the world of skateboarding by watching videos of professional skaters. Study their moves, techniques, and styles to inspire your own progress. Watching skateboarding videos can ignite your passion and fuel your motivation to improve.
Following Skaters on Social Media
Stay connected with the skateboarding community by following skaters on social media platforms. Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok are popular platforms where skaters frequently share their tricks, experiences, and insights. Interacting with other skaters virtually can provide valuable support and encouragement.
Joining Skateboarding Communities
Seek out local skateboarding communities or skate parks in your area. These communities often host events, group skating sessions, and workshops where you can learn from experienced skaters. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who share your passion can provide valuable guidance and support.
Setting Goals and Tracking Progress
Setting goals is an effective way to stay motivated and measure your progress. Start with small, achievable goals and celebrate each milestone. Keep a skateboarding journal or use a tracking app to record your progress, tricks learned, and areas for improvement. Regularly reviewing your progress will keep you motivated to reach new heights.
Conclusion
Mastering bluntslides and boardslides requires time, dedication, and perseverance. Keep in mind that skateboarding is a journey, and progress comes with consistency. Enjoy the thrill of learning new tricks and embrace your passion for skateboarding. With practice, patience, and the right mindset, you’ll be sliding and grinding with confidence and style in no time.
